Chiefs Seek Veteran QB to Fill In for Injured Mahomes

ESPN suggests Cousins, Lance, and Huntley as potential free agent options for Kansas City

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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With Patrick Mahomes recovering from a torn ACL, the Kansas City Chiefs are in the market for a veteran quarterback to potentially fill in as the starter at the beginning of the 2026 NFL season. ESPN's Nate Taylor has identified Kirk Cousins, Trey Lance, and Tyler Huntley as three free agent options the Chiefs could consider to back up Mahomes.

Why it matters

The Chiefs' offense is built around Mahomes' unique skillset, so finding a capable replacement is crucial. The team has limited draft capital this offseason, so signing a free agent QB may be the best path forward to ensure they remain competitive if Mahomes isn't ready for Week 1.

The details

The Chiefs' current backup, Gardner Minshew, sustained a late-season knee injury in 2025. Cousins, Lance, and Huntley each present different strengths and weaknesses as potential replacements. Cousins is an experienced veteran, Lance has upside but limited NFL starting experience, and Huntley is a mobile QB known for his time with the Ravens.

  • The 2026 NFL season is set to begin in September.

The players

Patrick Mahomes

The Chiefs' star quarterback who is recovering from a torn ACL injury.

Gardner Minshew

The Chiefs' current backup quarterback who sustained a late-season knee injury in 2025.

Kirk Cousins

A veteran NFL quarterback who is expected to be released by the Atlanta Falcons at the start of the new league year.

Trey Lance

A former 3rd overall draft pick who has played for the 49ers, Cowboys, and Chargers, and is known for his potential but limited NFL starting experience.

Tyler Huntley

A mobile quarterback who is most known for his time with the Baltimore Ravens.

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What they’re saying

“A major reason why the Chiefs should sign a veteran quarterback is because they have just six draft picks to bolster plenty of other areas on the roster -- such as the defensive line, receiver, running back, safety and tight end.”

— Nate Taylor, ESPN Analyst (ESPN)

What’s next

The Chiefs will need to make a decision on a veteran quarterback to sign as Mahomes' backup before the start of the 2026 NFL season.

The takeaway

Replacing an elite quarterback like Patrick Mahomes, even temporarily, is a significant challenge for the Chiefs. Their choice of veteran free agent will be crucial in determining how competitive the team can remain if Mahomes isn't ready for Week 1.